I was watching some Civil War photos, and I saw some strange rail switches. I would call them a “Butt switch.” Any history and proper names.
I think what you saw are called stub switches, so your choice of words is pretty close. They were popular before switch points were developed. That is an interesting subject, and I would be interested in more information on the evolution of switches and frogs.
Here is some switch detail: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Railroad_switch
Also google “stub switch.”
DRGW narrow gauge used them in some places up until the mid-late 50s.
The LNAC still has a couple in theie old yard in Corydon , IN. I believe they still get used ocassionally.
Hard to maintain and adjust (to put it mildly)… kind of rough ride… very very dangerous if even slightly out of line – and they get out of line at the drop of a hat.
East Broad Top in Pa. still has them. I believe they are mainly a low speed operation. Never got a chance to visit EBT in my wanderings around Pa. and Md.